1973
45
$1,200,000
Inquire
$2,500,000
No
Casa Olé is a beloved Tex-Mex restaurant chain that has been serving authentic, flavorful Mexican cuisine since 1973. With a commitment to quality ingredients, a warm family-friendly atmosphere, and exceptional service, Casa Olé has become a staple in the communities it serves. As part of Mexican Restaurants Inc. (MRI), Casa Olé offers a proven franchise model that combines tradition with innovation, making it an attractive investment opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs in the USA.
Proven Brand Legacy: With over five decades of operation, Casa Olé has established a strong brand presence and loyal customer base.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring operational success and brand consistency.
Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu caters to a wide range of tastes, featuring classic Tex-Mex dishes, appetizers, and a full bar, appealing to various customer preferences.
Established Market Presence: Operating in multiple states, Casa Olé has a proven track record in diverse markets, reducing investment risk.
Community Engagement: The brand's commitment to community involvement fosters customer loyalty and enhances brand reputation.
Established Year:
Casa Olé was founded in 1973 in Pasadena, Texas. The brand began as a small, family-oriented Tex-Mex restaurant and quickly grew due to its authentic recipes, friendly atmosphere, and consistent quality.
Founders:
The restaurant was founded by Larry Forehand and Mike Domec, who shared a vision of providing flavorful, authentic Tex-Mex cuisine in a welcoming, community-focused environment.
Franchise Units / Current Number:
As of 2025, Casa Olé operates over 45 locations in the United States, predominantly in Texas, with additional locations in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arizona. The locations include both corporate-owned and franchised units.
Ownership & Company Structure:
Casa Olé is part of Mexican Restaurants Inc. (MRI), a Houston-based parent company that manages multiple restaurant concepts, including Monterey’s Little Mexico, Überrito Fresh Mex, Tortuga Mexican Kitchen, and Crazy Jose’s. MRI Heritage Brands ensures consistent operational support, marketing, and brand standards across all franchises.
Brand Journey & Expansion:
1973–1978: The first Casa Olé location in Pasadena became popular for its authentic Tex-Mex flavors. Early success led to opening additional restaurants in Houston and nearby cities.
1978: Casa Olé Franchise Services, Inc. was established, marking the official beginning of franchising opportunities.
1980s–1990s: The brand expanded steadily within Texas, gaining a loyal customer base and reputation for high-quality Tex-Mex food.
2000s–Present: MRI acquired and consolidated Casa Olé under its portfolio, modernizing restaurant designs, introducing innovative menu items, and expanding the franchise network across multiple states.
Market Presence in the USA:
Casa Olé has a strong presence in suburban and urban areas, particularly in Texas, where it has become a recognizable Tex-Mex dining option. The brand enjoys a loyal customer base and has become a go-to choice for casual dining, catering services, and takeout.
Industry Category:
Casa Olé falls under the full-service Tex-Mex restaurant segment, competing with other casual dining chains that specialize in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. Its niche is authentic, family-friendly Tex-Mex offerings in a casual, approachable setting.
Other Notable Information:
Casa Olé emphasizes community engagement, often participating in local events, charity programs, and sponsorships to build strong community ties.
The brand maintains a balance between classic Tex-Mex staples and innovative menu options to attract a diverse clientele.
Casa Olé’s integration within MRI Heritage Brands allows franchisees to leverage collective expertise in operations, marketing, and supply chain management.
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Training: Comprehensive training programs covering operations, customer service, food preparation, and management to ensure consistency and quality across all locations.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials, promotional campaigns, and digital marketing strategies to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
Ongoing Operational Support: Regular visits from field representatives, operational audits, and continuous communication to address challenges and implement best practices.
Technology Tools: Provision of point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and other technological tools to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Investing in a Casa Olé franchise requires more than just capital; the ideal franchisee should align with the brand’s values, operational style, and commitment to community.
1. Entrepreneurial Spirit:
The ideal franchisee is someone with a passion for the restaurant and hospitality industry. They should enjoy interacting with customers, managing teams, and creating a memorable dining experience. A strong desire to grow and sustain a business is essential for long-term success.
2. Business Acumen:
While previous experience in the restaurant industry is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Franchisees with experience in operations management, customer service, or business administration are well-positioned to thrive. A willingness to learn and adhere to Casa Olé’s operational standards is crucial.
3. Community-Oriented:
Casa Olé thrives on its connection with the community. The ideal franchisee should value community engagement, actively participate in local events, and foster relationships with customers. A commitment to providing excellent customer service and a welcoming atmosphere is a key factor in building customer loyalty.
4. Financial Capability:
Prospective franchisees must have adequate capital to cover initial investment costs, working capital, and ongoing operational expenses. This ensures smooth operations, especially during the initial months as the business establishes itself.
5. Leadership & Management Skills:
The ability to hire, train, and manage staff effectively is vital. Casa Olé franchisees should demonstrate strong leadership qualities, motivate their team, and maintain consistent quality across all aspects of the restaurant.
6. Location Preference & Market Understanding:
Ideal candidates should be interested in establishing a restaurant in urban or suburban areas with a strong market demand for casual Tex-Mex dining. A good understanding of local demographics, consumer behavior, and competition is advantageous.
7. Commitment to Brand Standards:
Casa Olé places a high emphasis on consistency in food quality, service, and brand presentation. Franchisees must be willing to follow established procedures and operational guidelines to maintain brand integrity and reputation.
8. Growth-Oriented Mindset:
Franchisees who are ambitious and willing to explore expansion opportunities, such as multiple locations or catering services, are highly valued. Casa Olé supports proactive entrepreneurs who can scale the business while maintaining operational excellence.
Summary:
The ideal Casa Olé franchisee is a dedicated, community-focused entrepreneur with a passion for Tex-Mex cuisine, strong management skills, sufficient financial resources, and a commitment to following proven operational systems. By combining these qualities, franchisees can build a successful, thriving restaurant that benefits from the Casa Olé brand’s rich history and loyal customer base.
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $1,200,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | Varies by location and size of restaurant |
| Franchise Fee | $0 – $0 (information not explicitly disclosed; may vary based on negotiations) |
| Royalty Fees | Not publicly specified; typically 4–6% of gross sales for similar full-service franchises |
| Marketing / Advertising Fee | Included in total investment; approx. 2–3% of gross sales is typical for brand support |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Costs | Included in total investment; includes leasehold improvements, kitchen, furniture, décor |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment; typically 3–6 months of operational expenses |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and management; industry average for similar restaurants: 15–25% annually |
| Break-even Time | Typically 2–3 years depending on market conditions and location |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - Dine-in services - Takeout & delivery - Catering services - Beverage & bar sales |
| Franchise Units Current Number | 45+ locations across USA (mainly Texas, also Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arizona) |
